So, you are ready to head to the gym. But which is the right place for you to start your fitness journey? There is almost an overpopulation of gyms now, so how are you possibly supposed to know which is the right decision for you?
Today I am going to give a few tips on how to decide where you will work out. There are so many factors that go into it, and as someone who has been a member at multiple different gyms, I think I have finally figured it out!
5 Things to Consider:
- Distance From Home
- This is definitely something to think about. The closer the gym is to you, the more likely you will go. Think about your lifestyle in regards to distance. Maybe it is more important to you that it is close to your place of work, or even your kid’s daycare! What would be most convenient for you? You do not want to make going to the gym a chore, so chose something that is a comfortable distance away from you!
- Operating Hours
- What time do you think you will be hitting the gym? Are you a morning, afternoon, or night gym-goer? Maybe you like to switch it up! Some gyms have 24-hour access. Is this something you will benefit from? If you go in the morning before work, do you need to be at the gym at 5 am? Think about your timeframe, and go from there!
- Pricing
- How much does it cost to be a member of this gym? If you only plan on going once or twice a week, consider how much you are willing to pay. If you go very often, it might feel okay for you to go to a pricier gym if you think it is worth it!
- Some gyms have different membership options. Check out the lists of what each one includes to see if you want the basic one or if you’re interested in one that offers more! For instance, at the gym I go to, I have a membership that allows me full access to the gym, sauna, steam room, and spin classes!
- Other In the Gym
- If you are working out, you want to feel comfortable with the people around you. I am not saying you need to be everyone’s best friend, but it is important to feel confident in yourself regardless of who’s in the room. From personal experience, I used to go to a gym that was heavily populated by people ages 60+. I was so proud of them for being there, but I felt like I wanted to go somewhere that I could be pushed and inspired by others. The gym I attend now has a whole range of people, which is really ideal! There are some bodybuilders, some daily gym athletes that go for fun, some beginners, some elders… you name it! This type of gym creates a great community. Figure out what group of people will be best to surround yourself with!
- Training Options
- This one might be obvious, but what type of gym are you looking to go to? There are lifting gyms, gyms that have classes, Crossfit gyms… Whatever you’re looking for, it exists! Some gyms, like the one I attend, have classes that are specific to types of training, such as spin and kickboxing. If you are looking for a gym that is strictly lifting, those exist too!
Making A Decision
Now that you have some factors to base it on, give your local gyms a visit! Most gyms gives tours and a full rundown of what it would be like to be a member there. Also, ask if they have a try-out week or day! Many gyms give a day or week pass to you for free to see if you like it there!
If you choose somewhere and decide you aren’t a fan, no biggie! Many gyms allow you to pay month to month, so that might be the best option for you as a new member! I have switched gyms 4 times in my life. I have no guilt or regrets. It isn’t a life long commitment, so don’t stress it
Other Factors
I read up on a few other blogs that gave some great factors to consider when choosing a gym! I will link them below. The Planet Fitness link has some great things to think about, so give that one a close look! As always, let me know if you have any questions!
Thanks for reading!
(picture is taken from my gyms website, find it here)
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